When Nile arrived at the church he was greeted by a priest. Apparently the head priest was eager to know how the blessing went and had the priests keeping watch for Nile to return.. The high priest was expecting him the day before, but better late than never.
The high priest was mingling among the users in the church when Nile arrived. After a short greeting the priest escorted him back to his chambers. The high priests chambers were surprisingly grand. It more so resembled a king’s chamber than a priest’s. In the center of the room was a table and chairs. The priest set a kettle of water to boil as he instructed Nile to have a seat. When asked Nile recounted the events of what had happened. At the news of Nile being invited on the hunt the priest was amazed and delighted. It was a far better result than he had hoped for. When Nile mentioned the King’s demise his expression suddenly changed. Unlike the guards it wasn’t an expression of mourning or anger. It was more of acceptance and contempt. Nile had imagined him to weep as the guards did. Most citezens were loyal and had great reverence to their king. However the priest seemed like he was expecting it. He kept this expression until Nile changed the topic to the bandits invasion. At the mention of this he reacted with concern.
“If that is so, we must prepare immediately. The priests and paladins of the church of Lu will be more than willing to help defend this city. It is our home as well, and King Drake was our king.”
“That is good to hear, but there was also something else I wanted to discuss with you, if you don’t mind.”
“Speak away brother. As the high priest it is my duty to hear all that those of the church want to say.” Once the priest said that Nile became a little more hopeful. If the priest still considered him a brother than he may have retained his position in the church.
“I have recently chosen to persue a profession along my interests of archery. I’m afraid I’m not a cleric anymore.”
“Is that all? Brother Nile once you are a brother of this order you will always be one. Here at the church we encourage the pursuit of individual interests along with strong faith. As the churches ideals are Faith, Wealth, and Power. Archery fits into the category of power and it thus furthering the ideals of the church. If your worry was whether or not you were still considered a cleric of this church than don’t fret. You are and always will be, brother.”
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New Title:
Cleric Of The Church Of Lu
Even though you have changed your profession, clerics of the church hold their positions for life. This title allows you to be regarded as a cleric despite not being one by profession. Without having the profession you will not be able to gain cleric related skills, however the skills you have already gotten will remain and level up without being hindered.
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This was more than Nile was expecting. Even if it didn’t allow him to learn new cleric spells he already had the heal spell which was all that he wanted. The title would allow him to keep the benefits of being a cleric in terms of the way people treated him. Clerics were often more easily accepted by NPCs because of their religious nature.
Once Nile left the church he headed for the blacksmiths shop Baron had mentioned. He was still wearing the basic cleric robes and was in desperate need of an upgrade.
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It hadn’t been a full two days since Baron commissioned his armor, however he went to the blacksmiths anyways incase they were already finished. Since the shop was inside the castle it wasn’t too far of a walk from the stables. When he arrived the older dwarf was at the counter talking to an older gentleman. There was a a few pieces of armor on the counter that the dwarf was looking at. When Baron walked in the dwarf’s attention changed and he greeted the barbarian.
“Baron, I wasn’t expecting you for a while.”
“I was walking by and thought I’d check and see if the armor was ready.”
“You’re in luck. I just finished an hour ago. FABIO!!! Get Baron’s armor, would ya.” The dwarf shouted into the back where Fabio was working. He then turned back towards the man at the counter and addressed him. “Come back tomorrow evening and I should have the armor ready. You could’ve done worse. Those dents should come right out.”
“As confident as ever I see. Say, I thought you stopped doing commissions yourself and just pawned them off on that apprentice of yours?”
“I did, however this guy here’s got a particular fighting style. The armor sounded like a challenge and I was bored. Plus it’s not everyday you get to make armor for someone of his size.” The dwarf switched and started talking to Baron.” This is Sir Redric. He’s in charge of training the kingdom’s knights. You’d be surprised what it takes to get into his school.”
“Sir.” Baron took a step forward and shook the knight’s hand.
“Well then, where is this interesting armor you speak of?” Sir Redric questioned the dwarf.
“FABI-” The dwarf turned around to call for Fabio again, but he was already walking through the doorway. He was holding various parts of armor. He came and set it down next to the old man’s armor.
“Well what are you waiting for. Put it on.” The dwarf demanded.
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Custom Steel And Leather Armor Set -
Total Defense: 135
Durability: 450/450
Restriction:
Level 27
Strength 75
Knight class or similar
Barbarian Race
The armor was crafted by the master smith and tailor Leather Hand. The skill Forced Imperfections was used to reduce the level restriction at the cost of Defense and Durability. The armor is made out of steel and leather. Because the skill of the craftsman greatly surpases the stats of the armor, people will perceive the armor as better than it actually is. The armor was made to be used by barbarians, however tall humans or short giants may also use it. The steel has been mixed with an unknown mineral to turn it white. The leather has been dyed black.
The armor is mainly composed of steel with leather used in the joints and to reduce the effects of chaffing. Extra armor has been added to the right arm and right shoulder to aid in a particular fighting style. The contrast in white metal and black leather makes the armor stand out and gives it an artistic appearance.
Effects:
-25 Agility
+75% Defense when blocking with the right arm
+25% Dexterity with the right arm
-25% movement speed in the right arm
Stamina depletes 20% faster
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As Baron read the description he couldn’t help but notice the dwarf’s name and description. ‘If he was a master tailor, going so far as to call himself Leather Hand, why did he say he wasn’t skilled enough to use the cinder wolf pelt? He even said at his level he would only ruin it.’
The armor fit Baron surprisingly well, even with his insane height of 7’2. Aside from his face and neck there was no part of his body exposed. The armor was composed of a leather tunic and pants. The leather was more flexible than most leather armor. Its main putpose was to stop the steel armor from rubbing on the skin. Because of that the strength of it wasn’t an issue. The workmanship in the build and dye of the leather was outstanding. Usually when beginners try to dye leather it turns out spotty or gives the leather an oily feel, but this armor was solid black and dry. The steel portion of the armor wasn’t too heavy. If Baron had been anything but a barbarian who wouldn’t have been able to stand with it on. The steel reached a half inch thick near the chest and back. The steel itself was of 100% purity. After reaching that level of purity it was mixed with another mineral to change its color to white. It wasn’t solid white, but more of cloud color white, almost a white blue with imperceivable amounts of blue. The most distinguishing feature of the armor was its lack of symmetry. The armor was designed to aid in Baron’s fighting style. The dwarf did this by increasing the amount of armor on the right arm and shoulder. His right arm held the long sword in battle and was naturally slower than his left. Even though the extra armor added more weight it wouldn’t make that much of a difference. Since he blocked usually with his long sword it would help reduce accidental damage. If the enemy decided to hit his arm instead of the sword it wouldn’t make much of a difference. He could also use that arm as a shield. Since he used two swords there was no room for a shield. When in a pinch he could now use his right arm, although it wasn’t made for that so the loss of durability would be considerable. The extra weight would allow for more precise movements as well. That was likely the reason for the +25 dexterity effect.
“I see what you meant by interesting.” It was the old knight to comment first.
“Well I’d say I did a good job, wouldn’t you agree?”
“It fits perfectly.” Baron didn’t seem too excited when he talked. He was thankful that the armor met what he was looking for, but he didn’t feel like this was anything to be excited about. The armor was a means to an end, and that end was getting stronger for revenge. He still hadn’t forgiven that clan for killing him. Respect had been a huge aspect of his life since childhood and killing someone wasn’t respectful. Baron also didn’t realise the average defense for a set of armor with level 25 restriction was 100. Some of the best armor sets available at the time only had 125 at the most. The fact that he armor also had effects and an interesting appearance would make it sell for big on any auction site. Even if he sold it to an NPC in game he would still likely get 3 gold.
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“It’ll do more than that. Jeez just give me the 2 gold already. I ain’t giving you this armor for free ya know.” Leather Hand was a little disappointed by Baron’s reaction. He had just given him a gold mine and didn’t really get a reaction
Baron went into his inventory and took out the money. He handed it to the dwarf who quickly pocketed it.
“Her, I felt bad I couldn’t help you with the other thing so I decided to through this in free of charge.” The dwarf reached under the counter and pulled out what appeared to be a jet black wolf’s pelt.
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Wolf’s pelt Half Cloak
Durability: 55/55
Restriction:
Level 27
This half cloak was made by the master tailor Leather Hand. The skill Forced Imperfections was used to reduce the level requirement at the cost of durability. The cloak is made of a black wolf’s pelt of the highest quality. Because of the fur it provides excellent warmth in the cold. The cloak has an elegant appearance that attracts people’s attention.
Effects:
+20% Cold Resistance
+50 Leadership
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The half cload hooked onto his left shoulder and covered half of his body in black. It had an amazing effect to draw the eyes when placed on top of the white armor. The black leather accents in the armor helped give it a sense of unity, as if the cloak was made for the armor. It likely was knowing Leather Hand made both of them. The cloak effects were amazing. The fact that wearing this had no adverse effects was amazing. Items with no down sides are often considered the best. Baron couldn’t tell but the best part of this cloak was not what it did, but what it didn’t. The cloak was purposefully designed not to cover the armored right arm and the long sword on his back. While wearing this cloak anyone who saw him would automatically assume he was just a knight with heavy armor and a long sword. If it came to combat they would be taken off guard by his style of fighting. It was an effective metagame.
Right as Baron was about to thank the dwarf another man entered the shop. By his uniform you could tell he was a guard. He was a clean shaven guy who looked to be in his early 20s. Since his guard uniform had only minimal leather armor he was either an archer, which was unlikely, or a royal guard who were often of low nobility. Because of their families status they would be given cushy positions guarding royal family members. Most of their time was spent in the castle where there was no need for armor. Most attacks wouldn’t happen in the castle, but rather once they left the city or went walking in the streets.
When the guard entered he stopped a few feet from the door and didn’t say anything. He was staring at Baron with a mix of fear, amazement, and jealousy. After 5 long seconds he finally said something but all that came out was gibberish.
“I-I I-I- I’m”
“Well spit it out Richard.” Sir Redric spoke to the man. As a veteran knight it was reasonable that he would know most of the guards names.
“I’ve come with a summons from Prince Drake II for Sir Baron.” Richard gave a bow and ended up looking at Baron’s feet as he spoke.
As soon as he mention Sir Baron both Sir Redric and Leather Hand both burst into laughter. The man addressing Baron was so scared shitless that he added an honorific. To address someone who wasn’t a knight as Sir was considered embarrassing and disrespectful. Certain knights would take offense to someone who isn’t a knight being considered an equal of theirs. Thankfully Sir Redric wasn’t that type, although he did laugh a little too much causing the embarassment to worsen.
“He ain’t no knight. There’s no need for titles boy.” The dwarf finally stopped laughing enough to say something.
“Uhh-h Sorry!” Richard bowed again and started talking to Leather Hands feet that were hidden behind the counter.
“Are you sure it was for me?” Even though Baron had just met the Prince earlier that day he still couldn’t understand why he would be summoned.
“The Prince told me directly to find Baron, and... that you would be the scariest person I’ve ever seen.” He was still looking at Baron’s feet. Baron had an intimidating image before, but now with the armor and cloak he looked like someone to avoid. The Prince had also seen this for the moment in the battle when he thought Baron was an enemy.
Even though it didn’t make any sense why the Prince would summon him, Baron still left with the guard. If it was him the Prince summoned there would be consequences if he refused. The guard led Baron to the throne room. It was laveshly decorated. Down the long hall was a grand throne that looked like it could seat a giant.
When they entered Baron noticed they were the only ones in the room. Still his escort kept walking along towards the throne. When they got close Baron realised there was a door behind the throne. From inside it fait voices could be heard. When they entered 13 heads turned in their direction to see the barbarian and guard entering. The room was fairly large and had a huge table in the center with everyone around it. One the table was a map of the city and its surrounding areas. It was a war room with an active war council discussing the upcoming battle. Almost every person was clad in extravagant armor. There were a couple people who didn’t, but they were past their prime. At the far end of the table was the prince. His light leather armor he used for hunting was replaced with armor fit for a king. The rest of the men present Baron assumed to be knights. Since they were at the war council they were likely of high military rank.
“Ah! Baron thank you for coming on such short notice. I also sent a summons for Nile however he hasn’t arrived yet. Please take a seat.” With the wave of a hand the prince motioned for Baron to sit. The knights in the room seemed quite shocked. The Prince hadn’t mentioned anyone was coming, and the person who showed up was a barbarian. Baron was still wearing his new armor and appeared much more dignified than he actually was. Still it was unusual for the someone to be offered a seat on the council.
“Thank you my Prince.” Baron didn’t know what to say. Dealing with nobility wasn’t something he had ever done. His seat was opposite of the prince where there were a few open chairs.
“Baron, Please tell me. Was it you and Nile who told the guards of the upcoming bandit raid?” The Prince along with everyone else present suddenly got tense. The question was asked with a sort of force about it.
“Yes.” Baron answered immediately with no hesitation. He also answered with the same force the Prince had asked with. It wasn’t like him to back down from a fight, even if it was against a Prince.
“Then I am truly grateful to the two of you. If it wasn’t for that we never would have realised what was coming. Our scouts have determined there are at least 1,500 bandits in the forests surrounding us. I was planning to avenge my father as soon as possible, however I wasn’t aware they were coming to me. To think these scum think they can take Sai. It makes me sick we were so easily underestimated.”
“When they get here it will be slaughter. FOR KING DRAKE!!!” One of the knights spoke out. After he finished everyone else in the room repeated “FOR KING DRAKE.”
“That it will be. Baron, that brings me to the second reason I’ve summoned you. Currently the majority of our military is aiding our ally Kallamore in protecting their borders from Heaven. Because of this we have fewer than 1,000 soldiers in Sai. Including the guards and knights we have around 1,200 personnel ready for battle. If we are to even the odds we need to ask for the help of you foreigners. Although we are the authority over them we still know next to nothing about these foreigners. That is why I felt it would be better for you and Nile to lead them in the upcoming battle.” The Princes plan shocked everyone in the room. They had already talked about recruiting the foreigners, but there was no talk about a foreigner leading them. “Our plan was to recruit the strongest foreigners in the city and have them defend the west wall. It is the only side of the city not surrounded by forest so it is unlikely the enemy will attack there. Still we can’t neglect it. If the scum did manage to flank us the city would be plundered until we could exterminate them. From what I’ve seen of you in battle I can trust you with this.”
This is as far as I got in the story. I hope you enjoyed it. Any feedback on how to improve my writing, or what aspects of it are lacking would be greatly appreciated.
My other FF Reaper is similar, but it only follows the character Reaper. The story is drastically different past the first chapter, so in my opinion it is worth the read if you enjoyed this FF.
Thanks for reading.